The Challenges Of Homelessness In Chapter One Of Jesus The King

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Recommended: Impacts of homelessness in society

1.) According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, there are nearly 554,000 individuals facing homelessness. (2016) Personally, this number, as big as it seems, only accounts for the ones that want to be found; the ones we have access to. However, there are several that cannot be accounted for; several we don’t even know exist. The growing concern for homelessness is its presence. Not only can we see this locally in areas of Scranton and the surrounding cities, but when we travel to other places, it is just as evident. My biggest concern with those facing homelessness is the stigma and biases associated with being “homeless.” Too easily are these individuals are referred to as beggars, bums, addicts, lazy, etc. …show more content…

Entering a dance with Jesus, like any other dance, involves a rhythmic movement. With Jesus, in these movements, we are to “center everything in your life on me [God]” and “serve me [God] unconditionally.” (Keller, 2011, p.11) Dancing requires work, it requires grace, and it requires passion. Personally, I think this is a strong and honest analogy. Keller (2011) uses this analogy to express the difference among two distinct followers: skeptical, yet blinding following or devoted and loyal following. Describing Christianity in this way is harsh; however, I have personally witnessed the differences between these two types of following. Those who speak more than they act; those who aren’t willing to do the work, but are the first to criticize …show more content…

A battleground in which Christians are forced to face temptation and evil forces. The cost of discipleship is essentially fighting the fight on this battlefield. One has to give up our selfish desires and instead, follow Jesus.
Committing one’s life to follow Jesus can be demanding, yet rewarding; It can be trying, yet worthwhile. In Jesus: A Pilgrimage (2014), Martin characterizes seven reasons these fishermen may have been able to physically “drop their nets” to follow Jesus (p. 138-140) Summarily, it comes down to the simplicity of asking “are you ready?” I think the answer to this question stems back to the dance analogy. Following Jesus can be time-consuming, if done completely and accurately. It requires commitment and dedication. However, if one is “ready” it will be rewarding and worthwhile.
Leadership and charisma are two traits attributed to Jesus’s for accumulating many followers. Going deeper, a good leader has the ability to compel. To be a good leader, one has to be intriguing and passionate. Through the parables, we can see Jesus’s leadership abilities. Jesus spoke with simplicity and clarity. He could engage and empower. Traits like this and other redeeming qualities are what can drive social change in our world

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